Supporting Massachusetts Courts Through Mediation!
Resources for Mediation
Mediation services are available free for all. Contact us for information regarding
basic mediation training and volunteering. The program was established in 1990.
Mediation FAQs
Before you engage in mediation, you may have questions. Below is a list of some of
the most frequently asked questions.
Mediation is the process by which a neutral third party (mediator) attempts to bring
about a settlement between two parties. The mediator does not enforce an agreement,
but merely acts as an intermediary to help assist in resolving the dispute.
Many people look for and need assistance when they are no longer able to resolve a
conflict on their own. At Middlesex Mediation we encourage people to consider mediation
whenever this occurs. Common examples include landlord/tenant disputes, consumer/merchant
issues, automobile repairs and contractor disputes, as well as disagreements among
family members, roommates, and neighbors over a wide variety of issues.
The mediators are neutral third parties. They assist the parties in discussing the
conflict and help them to explore avenues of resolution put forth by the parties.
If agreement is reached, they will also assist the parties in writing an agreement
that reflects their decisions and will be signed by both parties. Mediators must complete
specific training and are required to maintain confidentiality.
Approximately 80 percent of the cases that go to mediation reach agreement. Mediation
does not require an attorney and can also avoid the process of going to court. Parties
that reach agreement are more likely to abide by the terms of their agreement because
they have created the solution themselves. Middlesex Mediation is a non-profit program
providing free and low cost community mediation services.
No, in some cases mediation sessions may be scheduled prior to your court date if
time allows. Mediation sessions are also available on the day of court in several
courts listed below. If agreement is not reached, you will proceed to your court hearing.
Mediation sessions are held at Middlesex Community College and scheduled during the
day, evening, and weekends, whichever is the most convenient. They are also held the
day of court in the following District Courts: Ayer, Concord, Lowell, and Waltham
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